Abstract

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF) is present in breast cysts, normal and
cancerous breast tissue. It plays an important role in oestrogen metabolism.
However, TGF is present predominantly in latent form and the mechanisms by
which latent TGF is activated physiologically remain largely an enigma.
The aims of this study were:
1) to investigate the effects of TGF B' IGF-I and IGF-II on cell growth, E1STS and
E2DH activities in the hormone-dependent MCF-7 and honnone-independent
MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell lines.
2) to investigate the effect of Cathepsin D and PSA on TGFl and TGF2 mRNA
expression, and their protein levels in both of the cell lines.
3) to study the effect of Cathepsin D and PSA on Type 1 and Type 2 E2DH mRNA
expression, EJ and E2 levels in both cell lines.